Akbayan Partylist First Nominee Atty. Chel Diokno welcomed the announcement of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista that the government was no longer pursuing plans to remove the EDSA bus lane. The Department of the Interior and Local Gov’t (DILG) and the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) previously announced plans to remove the bus lane arguing that the increased MRT-3 capacity can accommodate commuters.

“This victory would not be possible if not for the vocal opposition of our commuters. The strong stance of our commuters was heard—underscoring that it’s their voice that should carry the weight in decision-making for the transport sector,” Diokno said.

“The demand of our commuters is clear: improve, not remove, mass public transportation. Our commuters deserve more and better public transport options including bus lanes, rail lines, bike lanes, and more,” he emphasized.

Diokno also reiterated Akbayan’s call that any improvements to the transport system must prioritize commuters’ welfare and safety and not just private vehicles. Akbayan previously called on the government to extend the MRT and LRT lines’ operation to 12 midnight.

“The solution to traffic and congestion is to put the needs of our commuters first. We must expand transport options and ensure they are safe and reliable,” Diokno emphasized.